“It would be good to know your thoughts in this discussion, Lady Arlet.”
The redhead at my side looks around the room, her expression unreadable.
The missive’s words play through my mind.
“If our request is met, a binding peace agreement will be brokered, and Enduvida will be spared a second war.”
Helping others is Arlet’s addiction. It’s simply too sweet for her to resist. I watch every subtle move of her body, willing her to put herself first for once in her godsdamn life.
She takes a deep breath.
“Becoming Arion’s bride would support his rule, leading to a longer rule. In the long run, I think it would be more dangerous than outright refusing.”
I lean back, almost smiling.
That’s. Fucking. Right.
“I think it is important to know what exactly happened when you met him the first time?” I cut in, voice low. I need details.
She hesitates. Then, “I escorted him to the Festival of Endu. He told me he liked humans. I don’t remember much else before the attack.”
Teo leans forward, fingers steepled. “And now, he seeks you in marriage?”
“This is not a marriage proposal,” Arlet says bitterly. “It’s a breeding order.”
A guttural growl rises in my throat, and a few heads turn toward me. The ache in my limbs sharpens, creeping up my spine, spreading through my body. My hands curl into fists against the cold stiffness taking hold.
Lothar shifts his weight in the chair. “I understand the gravity of what we’re discussing, but we don’t need to respond right away. We have just finished one celebration, and in a few days, we have another for the Mating Journey. Since this will not be a simple answer, I suggest we take time to review our options and speak with Mrath.”
“She will not take this news well,” Thorne warns. “I would tread lightly.”
I grit my teeth, my breath coming slower, my veins sluggish as though something were freezing the warmth right out of me.
Another drop of hatred seeps into my mind, poisoning my thoughts. It is madness that we even have to entertain this conversation.
When I look at Arlet, something fierce scratches at my chest. I’d been too angry—too worried during the meeting—and I would pay for that. But if it meant she wouldn’t consider this offer, it would be worth it.
The softer notes of the clock tower play outside, marking midnight.
“It is late, and it seems that we will not come to a conclusiontonight. If we need time to think about this and speak with our ally, then I request the meeting to end.”
I feel every gaze in the room.
Teo looks at his wife, and for a second, jealousy stirs in my chest. Not for Estela, but because I miss that sensation. I miss having someone who was my partner in all things.
It is Queen Estela who speaks next. “Lothar, Ra’Salore, Vann, and Svanna, will reconvene during our regular meeting time tomorrow. You may rest for the evening.”
Teo nods in agreement, and I don’t wait for anyone to say another word. I stand and leave, yanking the door open unceremoniously.
I hear the sound of her shoes first—impractical little heels designed to bridge the gap between human and enduar heights.
Adra always wore slippers or boots.
“Vann!” Arlet calls.
For a second, my dull, frost-coated emotions spike again. It’s unhealthy. I’ll pay the price for such feelings soon.
I let out a sigh and turn, despite the stiffness in my limbs.